Drivers warned over weight restrictions on Kendal area bridges
Heavy vehicles over 7.5 tonnes breaching the limit could face fines or prosecution
Drivers of vehicles over 7.5 tonnes are being warned by authorities not to flout weight restrictions on Brigsteer and Underbarrow bridges near Kendal.
The bridges, which run over the A591, had initially been closed due to structural concerns identified in a report by an external expert commissioned by Westmorland and Furness Council. After further detailed assessments, they were reopened under strict 7.5 tonne weight limits in February 2025.
Despite clear signage and the implementation of a designated alternative route for heavy vehicles, reports have emerged of drivers continuing to ignore the restrictions. Cumbria Constabulary is actively monitoring the area with marked and unmarked cars to ensure compliance. Drivers who violate the limit face the risk of prosecution and fines, as breaching these restrictions is a criminal offence.
The council has also introduced enhanced monitoring to assess the frequency of breaches and to determine if further measures are needed.
Councillor Peter Thornton, Westmorland and Furness Council's Cabinet Member for Highways and ICT, stressed the importance of adhering to the weight limits.
“Safety remains the top priority throughout this essential process while also maintaining access for most vehicles," Thornton said.
“Anybody contravening these restrictions is putting themselves and others at risk. This enhanced monitoring will give us a clear picture of whether drivers of vehicles over 7.5 tonnes are continuing to use these bridges. If these contraventions continue, then we will have to review the situation and the options available to us.”
Brigsteer and Underbarrow bridges, built in the 1960s and 70s, are reinforced concrete half-joint structures. This style of bridge requires bespoke and detailed assessments conducted by external experts over time to ensure safety in line with national guidelines. While recent investigations confirmed no significant deterioration, the weight limit has been enforced due to a design issue with half-joint structures, a problem that has been identified in other areas across the UK.
The restrictions are intended to ensure safety and preserve the structural integrity of the bridges. Drivers of heavy vehicles are urged to comply with the restrictions to avoid endangering lives and worsening the condition of the bridges.